Walsh University has appointed Stacey Gardner-Buckshaw, Ph.D., as the new Director of Service Learning. The mission of the Office of Service Learning is to facilitate mutually beneficial service opportunities between Walsh and the community, which are integrated into class assignments. These hands-on learning projects foster civic responsibility and support the Walsh University mission to educate students to become leaders in service to others through a values-based education.
Dr. Stacey Gardner-Buckshaw brings more than 12 years of non-profit experience in the areas of program development, program management, fundraising, research/strategic planning, and program evaluation. Prior to joining Walsh, Gardner-Buckshaw served in various roles including the Director of Social & Special Programs at Akron Summit Community Action, Program Manager for Girl Scouts of North East Ohio, and was the first GAR Foundation Research Fellow.
"Walsh University has a strong culture of innovation, a commitment to service, and an exciting draft of a future story with themes of social justice and student success," said Dr. Gardner-Buckshaw. "I hope that I can serve by helping students find their passion for positive change, helping faculty achieve learning outcomes for students through service, and matching dedicated nonprofit organizations with talented Walsh students and faculty who can help them fulfill their missions of service to others."
Stacey Gardner-Buckshaw earned her Ph.D. in Urban Studies and Public Affairs from The University of Akron in 2007, was awarded the Barbara J. Stephens Dissertation Award, and also served as the President of Graduate Student Government. She earned her Master of Public Administration from The University of Akron in 2003. While in graduate school, Gardner-Buckshaw was employed by The University’s Institute for Health and Social Policy as the Research Assistant on the SPARK Ohio (Supporting Partnerships to Assure Ready Kids) pilot. Stacey received a B.A. from Muskingum College in 2002 in the fields of Neuroscience and Psychology where she served as a class officer and earned many academic honors.
Gardner enjoys spending time with her husband, Jeff Buckshaw, and two children, Reagan and Carter. She is a also a member of The University of Akron’s Women’s Committee, the Summit Bridges Advisory Council, and recently joined the School Board of the United Disability Services Steel Academy.